Help given to evacuated family

We wish you all a Happy New Year, although as a brand-new year it hasn’t gotten off to a great start! Our thoughts and prayers are with those fighting fires who are protecting people and properties all over our Nation.

Last week, at the start of the fire emergency, Emma (not her real name) who is in her early 20’s came into St John’s Care, from Batlow. She was visibly upset and trembling. When we asked her what was wrong, she said, “All I literally have is the clothes I am standing in”. Her family had been evacuated and all her belongings were in the family home.

Emma came to a safe place in Canberra and was told to attend the Centre to get food and clothing. Earlier in the day we had had a delivery of ladies’ underwear which was so helpful as she only had a few items with her. We also gave Emma dignity bags that were left over from Christmas as she had no toiletries.

The volunteers spent a long time with Emma, talking to her and calming her down. We advised her to go to the Dickson Emergency Evacuation Centre where she and her family could receive more support and information.

Emma was so very grateful for all the support and care that we offered her and her family. In fact, she couldn’t believe the generosity of the Canberra community!

The following list outlines the assistance SJC provided to the Canberra Community in 2019.

Assistance provided to families and individuals: 5930

Scrips given out: 897

Support with utility bills: 127

MyWay tickets: 92

Bus Tickets: 659

Christmas lunch: 250

Christmas hampers and Present Room: 452

Homeless packs: 198

Essential Items: Tinned tomato, powered milk, Vegemite, tomato sauce and lunch box snacks.

Kind Regards,

Sarah Murdoch

Executive Officer